Knud Heinesen

Knud Heinesen (26 September 1932 – 8 January 2025) was a Danish economist and politician who held various cabinet posts, including the minister of education and minister of finance. In 1985 he retired from politics and was involved in business.

Background Heinesen was born in Kerteminde on 26 September 1932. He was raised in Vangede. He attended Aurehøj Gymnasium in Gentofte and graduated in 1951. He studied economics at the University of Copenhagen and graduated in 1959.

Career Following his graduation Heinesen worked as a high school teacher in Roskilde. He was in office until 27 September 1973 when Ritt Bjerregaard replaced him in the post in a cabinet reshuffle. Heinesen was appointed minister of budget 27 September 1973, replacing Per Hækkerup in the post. Heinesen resigned from office in 1979 and was succeeded by Svend Jakobsen, but he served as the vice president of the Social Democrats.

Heinesen was named as the minister of public works on 15 October 1981 when Jens Risgaard Knudsen had to resign from the office due to his involvement in a scandal. His tenure ended on 30 December 1981. He was succeeded by Henning Christophersen as minister of finance.

Heinesen retired from politics in 1985 and became director of Copenhagen Airport. From 1989 to 1995 he served as the director of several companies and was also a member of the boards of different companies.